Aspiring Pilot - 16 Year Old from UK

[MSP100]

Good Morning,

I write on behalf of my son, who is currently 16 (turning 17 in a couple of months) and is in his first year of studying A Levels, in West Midlands - UK.

Just under a month ago, we had our first father and son flying experience with Almat Flying School at Coventry Airport, where he got the opportunity to fly a Cessna 4-Seater and following that experience, he has expressed some interest in considering a career in flying and based on his friendly and hands-on personality, I think it's something I would like to support him with.

We have now started the mountainous research stages and we were looking for some advice from youngsters who have maybe been in a similar experience.

We have so many options available, that we almost feel like information overload is causing some confusion on where to go next, therefore we would really appreciate some opinions and advice on the questions below please...

1. On the basis he could complete an integrated programme, would it be beneficial considering a flying school with overseas links?
2. As he is in education for another 13 months at his current age of almost 17, could he do any preparation training during his weekends and holidays that would give him a head start before joining an integrated programme?
3. A friend who lives in Cyprus mentioned a flying school there, and kindly offered to provide accommodation and support throughout the programme - sound like a good opportunity?
4. What is the typical timescales from your experience for students to fulfil their first pilot position once they have completed the course and could his younger age hinder him?
5. Lastly, we attended a 2Fly seminar over the weekend which was really informative and included flying time in Florida, but it also felt like a polished sales pitch with a heavy up front cost schedule, therefore would appreciate any thoughts on this?

Apologies for so many questions on our first post, however it would be really appreciated to get some advice and guidance within this minefield and hopefully it helps others who may be in similar positions...

Regards,
MSP100